For my Senior thesis, I want to create a film that tells a fun, compelling story using the filmmaking knowledge gained at Loyola Marymount University. This is a heartfelt story, driven by character, and honesty – one that we can all relate to.
For my Senior thesis, I want to create a film that tells a fun, compelling story using the filmmaking knowledge gained at Loyola Marymount University. This is a heartfelt story, driven by character, and honesty – one that we can all relate to.
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Story
Mission Statement
Student-run, this film will be crewed by a diverse group of women and men, excluding no one due to any preconceived notions about filmmakers or crew. We strongly believe that the important changes within the film industry must be done at even the student level if we are to improve as a whole.About The Project
My film, This Is Hard, is a comedic, coming of age tale following the tight-knit friendship between two boys in their final year of high school. Focused on one night, the story follows Joseph as he prepares to “do it” for the first time. He’s excited to finally be growing up, but his best friend, Ryan, isn’t so enthused. It’s about the transitionary period between childhood and adulthood. A rocky phase for many, this film tackles themes, including being in the moment versus thinking of the future, and focusing on what’s important, like your best friends.
Like the Coen brothers and Edgar Wright, this film will demand more from short form comedy. The story’s intimate and affecting tone will impact the look and feel of the film, from the cinematography and production design to the sound design and editing, and everything in between. Because this is such a personal, human story, the film will establish a close relationship between the viewer and the characters, allowing the audience to feel like they’re a part of the friendship. And despite the punchlines, there’s a certain level of looseness and realism to the dialogue, reminiscent of Judd Apatow comedies. Additionally, the fast-paced dialogue will be contrasted by stark, private moments of silence. Low lows and high highs will drive this film forward, just as we’re all familiar with in life.
This story is incredibly meaningful to me, but I hope it will be meaningful to everyone who sees it as well. It’s a part of our lives we’re all familiar with, and we can all relate to this friendship and time in some way. And I hope that after the laughs, you will leave the theater thinking about something greater, thinking about the people that are most important to you.
Incentives
$10
Thank you!
You will receive a very special message detailing our great appreciation for your support :)
$15
Shouts Out to You!
A contribution of $15 or more deserves a special shout-out, doesn't it?
$20
Private Link
A contribution of $20 or more will unlock access to a private link of the film upon completion!
$30
A Special Thank You
Any supporting contributing $30 or more will automatically receive a 'Special Thanks' in the finished film!
$50
Personalized High School Forecast
If you contribute $50 or more you will receive an email including your personalized high school forecast, detailing just how cool you were in high school.
$100
Associate Producer
A donation of $100 or more will earn you the credit of Associate Producer on this film!
$200
Executive Producer
With a significant contribution of $200 or more, you will be credited as an Executive Producer for helping bring this film to life!!
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Wishlist
Use the WishList to pledge cash and loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an incentive directly.
$10
Thank you!
You will receive a very special message detailing our great appreciation for your support :)
$15
Shouts Out to You!
A contribution of $15 or more deserves a special shout-out, doesn't it?
$20
Private Link
A contribution of $20 or more will unlock access to a private link of the film upon completion!
$30
A Special Thank You
Any supporting contributing $30 or more will automatically receive a 'Special Thanks' in the finished film!
$50
Personalized High School Forecast
If you contribute $50 or more you will receive an email including your personalized high school forecast, detailing just how cool you were in high school.
$100
Associate Producer
A donation of $100 or more will earn you the credit of Associate Producer on this film!
$200
Executive Producer
With a significant contribution of $200 or more, you will be credited as an Executive Producer for helping bring this film to life!!
- Updates
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Current Team
About This Team
Comprised entirely of students, this crew is as friendly as it gets – more of a family than anything. But don’t be fooled, these people are the best at what they do. Handpicked for their position, each crew member is of vital importance to the set, and to the story as well. With such a relatable and fun story, we wanted our crew to reflect the lighthearted yet serious attitude of the film. Additonaly, this film will be crewed by a diverse group of women and men, excluding no one due to any preconceived notions about filmmakers or crew. We strongly believe that the important changes within the film industry must be done at even the student level if we are to improve as a whole.
Writers, Jack Widman and Grant Gadbois bring their eclectic, comedic energy to the script. Producer, Bailey Morgan adds her insight into making it all happen. Director of photography, Andrew York supplies the look and feel of the film, supplemented by Peter Rafe’s gaffing skills, and Jade Vaughn’s work on production design. Casting, of course, perfected by Natasha Benham, and the cuts completed by the wonderful editor, Kashi Hall.
The many more unnamed crew members are not forgotten, as each team member is integral in the production of this film, and the telling of the story. Each of us make up This Is Hard.
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